Wellbeing and support
Recovery is about more than your stoma and your voice. Look after your mind and body too, and lean on the people who understand.
Your emotional health
It is common for people who have been through cancer treatment to feel depressed or anxious. A laryngectomy changes your voice, your breathing and your routine, and it is normal to need time to adjust.
If you are feeling low or anxious, please tell your medical team. There is support out there, and you are not alone.
Your thyroid
Your thyroid gland, in the front of your neck, helps control almost every cell and organ in your body. Thyroid problems are common after a laryngectomy.
- Why it happens. Some or all of the thyroid may be removed during surgery, or it may be damaged by radiotherapy.
- What to look out for. Thyroid problems can cause low mood, sleepiness and tiredness. These can build up slowly over time, so they are easy to miss.
- What to do. See your doctor regularly and mention any symptoms. A yearly blood test may be needed to check how your thyroid is working.
Others like you
The laryngectomy community is small but close. It brings together people who have had the surgery, their families and carers, and the professionals who look after them.
In many places you can join a support group or voice club. Many meet regularly, in person or online, to share experiences, tips and friendship. Meeting people who have been through the same thing can make a real difference to your recovery. Your clinician may be able to point you to a group near you.
You can also read stories from people living well after a laryngectomy.
Moving forward
Your recovery is your own, but you are not alone on the journey. People who have had a total laryngectomy and have no other serious health problems can expect to live long, healthy and full lives.
As you grow more confident, you may want to try new things, such as speaking hands-free. Moving forward is also simply about getting on with your life. It is not always easy, but many people before you have settled into daily life and live well.
Resources
These organisations offer information and support to people with a laryngectomy and their families.
- International Association of Laryngectomees
- A worldwide association of laryngectomee clubs and support groups.
- WebWhispers
- An online community and information library run by and for laryngectomees.
Your clinician and care team will always be your best source of advice about your own health.